Tokyo subway 'phantom station' reveals itself to passengers for first time in nearly 90 years

The Ginza Line of the Tokyo Metro connects the capital’s Shibuya and Asakusa districts, and consists of 19 stations that passengers can get off at. But unbeknownst to many people, if you ride the entire line you’ll actually pass through 20 different stations.

The Ginza Line is the oldest subway line in Tokyo, and when it started operation in 1927, a lot of the present stations were still in the planning stages. The subway-connected portion of Kanda Station, for example, wasn’t ready until 1931, and while it was under construction the neighborhood was instead serviced by Manseibashi Station, located across the river from Kanda Station.

Manseibashi was from the beginning meant to be a temporary station, and was only a passenger stop between January of 1930 and November of 1931. Even after the station was shut down, though, trains have continued to run right through it; it’s just hard to notice because Manseibashi is shrouded in darkness. But starting December 1, Manseibashi will shine again, literally, as it’ll be illuminated so that passengers can catch a glimpse of history as their subway train passes by.

A sign reading Manseibashi Photo: TOKYO METRO

In addition to its mysterious “phantom station” status, Manseibashi Station’s scenic location next to the Kanda River and retro/historical cachet has given it a special place in the hearts of those who know about its significance. Part of the remaining station building has even been repurposed as a stylish dining/shopping complex, which boasts a cafe with the most intensely dynamic view of trains that you’ll find in Tokyo.

However, Manseibashi Station’s moment in the spotlight will only last until January 18 (the decommissioned platform of Jingumae Station, part of the present-day Ginza Line’s Omotesando Station, will also be illuminated during the period). So if you’d like to see this secret side of Japan’s infrastructure underbelly, don’t miss this chance, because who knows if you’ll have to wait another 90 years for the next one.

Dec. 1, 2017
12:03 am JST

There are quite a few ghost stations on the London Underground. There used to be occasional tours of them, but now some have been sold and are being developed into restaurants and bars. The Royal Mail's old underground railway recently has tours.

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